How Henry Morgan built an iconic car company

This single-seater car was offered on sale with the choice of either a single-cylinder 4 HP or a V-twin 8 HP motorcycle motor, both of which were manufactured by the then leading motorcycle engine builder J A Prestwich.

The concept was simple - lash a powerful motorcycle engine on to a lightweight chassis - and the resulting power-to-weight ratio was, as predicted, incredible for its time and brought in many motorsport accolades for the company.

How Henry Morgan built an iconic car company

Car sales jumped when a two-seater version was launched. The firm consequently grew too large for the original factory premises, and a plot of open farmland was bought in 1914. This Malvern Link site continues to function as the 'works' till date.

The two-speed gearbox gave way to a 3-cog affair in 1931 and for the first time, also incorporated a reverse gear. By this time, Matchless engines were being used in the Morgan 3 Wheelers.

How Henry Morgan built an iconic car company

In 1933, the first F-type was introduced, powered by a Ford engine. The F-types went on to be one of the most popular three-wheelers to go into production.

At the 1936 London and Paris motor shows, a new Morgan was unveiled. A departure from the 3-wheelers, this one had one extra hoop and was called the Morgan 4-4 in keeping with its four-cylinder engine and four wheels.